The foundation of the morale and esprit de corps of any military organization is a merit-based officer corps, issuing clear orders that comply with both the spirit and letter of the law. The effectiveness of any military organization is dependent on officers and men and women having full faith and confidence that they will be provided the means to do their job: from arms and equipment to homes and health care. The proper relationship between civilians and the military exists where there is trust, and that trust depends on strategic harmony.

My fundamental philosophy is there cannot be right solutions without the corresponding correct identification of the problems. Secretary Gazmin is undertaking, at my direction, a comprehensive review of the many aspects of our national defense with this orientation in mind. I want you to know that if my expectations of you are high, it is because I know that our people’s expectations of all of us are the highest. I will not make false promises to you or tell you things simply for the sake of making positive headlines.

Nagagalak ako na ang isang bahagi ng anibersaryo na ito ay ang pagbibigay ng mga komendasyon at awards sa mga miyembro ng inyong hanay, na nagpakita ng kagalingan at abilidad. This is what the PAF is about: whatever the odds, it is to defend your country and people with the valor and dash of Jesus Villamor. I salute you.